Steps to Take After Receiving Your Divorce Decree

Steps to Take After Receiving Your Divorce Decree

Posted By
Dean Kantaras

Once you’ve received your divorce decree, there are still a few steps
you need to take before you can truly put your divorce behind you.

First, you’ll want to actually read the divorce decree several times,
and as thoroughly as possible. It’s important for you to have a
complete understanding of everything it contains. Mark down all of the
obligations listed for both you and your former partner. Additionally,
you should never assume the decree is completely free of mistakes. If
you notice any errors, immediately inform your divorce attorney, who can
take care of getting any issues addressed.

Next, you will want to complete all of your post-divorce obligations. This
could include removing your former spouse’s name from important
documents and refinancing your mortgage. Make sure you complete all tasks
as promptly as possible to avoid violating your divorce agreement. Have
your former spouse’s obligations on your calendar, as well, so you
can get in touch with him/her or your lawyer immediately if a deadline
gets missed.

Updating key documents and accounts

You will also need to remove your ex-spouse’s name and updating your
contact information on several documents and/or accounts. Documents to
focus on include any estate planning papers you have, emergency contact
information, checking and savings accounts, credit cards, loans, retirement
accounts, insurance policies and tax withholdings.

Finally, and most importantly, take some time off for yourself to be with
your children (if applicable) and your family. This period of recharging
is incredibly important after such a lengthy and stressful period in your
life. Before you can successfully move forward, you need to feel refreshed.

For further guidance on what you should do after your divorce, meet with
the experienced St. Petersburg family law attorneys at the Law Office
of K. Dean Kantaras today.